Root Canal

What Are Root Canals?

Badly decayed or infected teeth often require a root canal to repair them and to protect the surrounding tissue from infection. Patients in need of a root canal can visit either a dentist or an endodontist (a specialist), depending on the severity of the problem.

First, an X-ray is taken to examine the shape of the root canals and to check for signs of infection in the surrounding bone. After applying local anesthesia, the dentist places a rubber dam around the tooth to keep it free from saliva. Drilling an access hole into the tooth, the dentist removes the damaged pulp, nerve tissue, and debris using root canal files of varying sizes. If an infection still exists within the tooth, the dentist may insert medication and a temporary filling and then wait a week before sealing the tooth; otherwise it is sealed on the same day.

The dentist fills the tooth with sealer paste and a rubber compound before closing the exterior access hole with a filling. A crown or similar restoration may be necessary to protect the tooth and restore full functionality. Patients may experience some discomfort for a few days after the procedure due to natural tissue inflammation. Most patients tend to resume normal activity within a day, but should avoid chewing with the tooth while it is still under restoration.